Arlington, Virginia, April 15, 2024–Two iconic figures, NFL Great Brian Mitchell and decorated army veteran Colonel Gregory Gadson (retired), are preparing to cycle 110 miles in two days across three states in the nation’s most inspiring and inclusive cycling challenge, Face of America (FOA) presented by Osaic Foundation. Held annually since 2006, the three-day event returns to Arlington, Virginia on April 19-21, 2024. The route begins in Crystal City, Virginia, courses through Frederick, Maryland, and concludes at the historic Civil War community of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. 

Mitchell, renowned for his illustrious football career and Gadson, a highly decorated Army Colonel, will cycle alongside veterans and supporters in this inspiring journey through the nation’s capital to the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg. The event holds a special significance as it not only commemorates the sacrifices of past generations but also serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of today’s veterans.

“Participating in Face of America is a profound opportunity to honor our veterans and support inclusive cycling,” said Mitchell. “It’s an honor to ride alongside Greg and all those who have sacrificed so much for their country.” 

Mitchell and Gadson battled each other for FOA’s top fundraiser spot last year, both pushing each other to raise a combined total of over $67,000. Their efforts uplift our mission and allow us to continue providing inclusive athletic programming around the country. 

The event, organized by World T.E.A.M. (The Exceptional Athlete Matters), brings together veterans, active-duty military members, and civilians in a spirit of camaraderie and inclusion. Riders pedal 110 miles across three states from Virginia to Pennsylvania. The challenge is a journey of resilience and perseverance shared by veterans and adaptive athletes alike. 

Gregory Gadson, whose remarkable story of courage and determination has inspired many, is the Global Ambassador for FOA and serves as a board member for World T.E.A.M. As a long-time participant and top fundraiser for FOA, Gadson expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “As a veteran, I understand the importance of supporting our fellow service members. Face of America embodies the spirit of unity and resilience that defines our military community.” Gadson recently published his memoir, Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Towards Peace and Purpose.

Face of America serves as a platform to highlight the importance of adaptive sports and the role they play in the empowerment of individuals with disabilities. Through this event, participants aim to inspire others to embrace challenges, overcome obstacles, and pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances. 

“We are thrilled to have Brian Mitchell and Greg Gadson join us again for FOA.” says World T.E.A.M. CEO and President, Jon Brideau. “Their participation underscores the significance of this event in honoring our veterans and supporting adaptive athletes. Together we can make a meaningful difference and ensure that the spirit of camaraderie and resilience continues to thrive.”

Face of America prioritizes camaraderie, inclusivity, and teamwork and ensures the goal of all riders finishing the two-day challenge together. Over 350 athletes, countless volunteers, and sponsors will be raising over $800,000 to support World T.E.A.M and its mission of inclusivity. Included among these athletes are adaptive military veterans who live with paralysis, loss of limb, blindness, Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injuries and other injuries and conditions. One of the largest inclusive cycling programs in the country, Face of America is unique in that all athletes pedal alongside each other on road bicycles, three-wheel recumbent bicycles and hand cycles, thus inspiring the social media hashtag #weallridethesameroad.

Along the route, many local communities turn out to support the riders, showing appreciation to the participating adaptive veterans. Athletes will complete Saturday’s ride at a special celebration hosted at the Frederick Fairgrounds. Upon arrival, participants can enjoy a meal from a local food truck and beverages. Early Sunday afternoon, athletes will complete their journey from Arlington at the World War II American Experience museum in Gettysburg. 

World T.E.A.M.’s Face of America is annually supported through generous sponsorship and partnerships. Presented by Osaic Foundation, additional partners include Capital One, Navy Federal Credit Union, Forge VFR, MedStar Health, Boulder Crest Foundation, PenFed Credit Union, Booz Allen Hamilton, Dell Technologies, ForeScout, Restoration Capital, Network Designs, Penske Truck Rental, LeMond Bicycles, and Mt. Airy Bicycle Company.

About World T.E.A.M.

World T.E.A.M. brings adaptive and able-bodied athletes together by empowering, enabling and engaging individuals through inclusive athletic programs. For more than a quarter century, our organization has used athletics to challenge men, women and children with disabilities to accomplish goals they never thought possible. In all our programs – whether mountain climbing, biking, white water rafting or many other sports – we include both adaptive and able-bodied participants.